Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon

Coombe Woods is not a place that you are likely to stumble across accidentally.  A beautiful small area of ancient woodland in East Devon, it is owned and maintained by the National Trust.

With the help of volunteers these woods are a being preserved for future generations. A relatively small area of woodland it makes for an easy circular walk of about 1 mile. Just far enough to blow away those winter cobwebs!

My visit was last May so looking lusciously green – it won’t be long now!

Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon path
The main footpath takes you right around the outer edge of the woods with a few paths criss-crossing inside it.

To be honest it would be hard to get lost. Paths can be muddy and uneven so not really one for a pushchairs, but being a short route it’s ideal for small children.

A Spring Walk with My Mum

When we went last year,  we were just too late to see the bluebells in full bloom, but I can imagine it looks lovely. Just writing about it is making me think about the heady scent they emit on a warm spring day.  Oh I do hate to wish time away but come on Spring –  we need you!

Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon short walk
Whatever the time of year, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of these sheltered woodland paths. It’s a mix of ash and oak trees with wild flowers including orchids peering through the undergrowth. However it’s best known locally for it’s fabulous bluebell display in April and May.

If you do go with children remember to keep them on the paths so the delicate bluebells do not get trampled.

 

Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon orchids
Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon build a den

Adults can admire the views, enjoy the fresh air and just be. Enjoy your walk and relax.

 

Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon National Trust volunteers

Children can build a den, hunt for mini beasts, play hide and seek or just gallop around!

Flip Flops or Wellies bluebells
If you love being outside why not find out about volunteering to help the National Trust like these folk we chatted to.

How to Get There

Combe Woods are just outside Honiton on the other side of the A30 dual carriage way. To get there you need to head into Honiton and out of town under the dual carriageway.

Coming from the Axminster direction or the East end of the town, drive just a few 100 metres down the High Street and take the first turn right onto Clapper Lane. Follow the road out of the town, under the dual carriageway then it’s about 1/2 mile further as you go up the hill.

The woods are then on your left. Parking is not great, it’s just lay-by pull ins on the side of the road. You should see some National Trust signs to indicate you have arrived. Follow your nose and have a lovely wander.

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Combe Woods woodland walk near Honiton in Devon fern gully
Combe Wood National Trust woodland walk Honiton East Devon
Shank You Very Much
If you need refreshments after your walk, Honiton has plenty of coffee shops.  The Boston Tea Party is great, it’s dog friendly and has a lovely garden as well.

Looking For Other Walks in East Devon?

Other walks around Honiton include Roundball Hill which offers great views over the town and well as Dumpdon Hill Fort which is further up the hill from Coombe Wood.  Also not far from Honiton is the lovely Offwell Woods.  If you are on the bluebell trail then take a look at my bluebell woods guide.

Thank you for reading my blog posts.

Clare

The Helpful Hiker